How to Remove Hard Tartar

What is Tartar?

Tartar, scientifically known as calculus dentium, is a hardened form of dental plaque. It can develop on the surfaces of the teeth, potentially covering the entire tooth crown, as well as on removable or fixed dental prosthetics, implants, or braces.

Tartar forms relatively quickly and is often found even on areas of the tooth that are not actively used during chewing.
Our saliva and leftover food particles in the mouth contribute to the buildup of dental plaque, which contains high concentrations of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, along with proteins, polysaccharides, and various microorganisms. These substances accumulate around the teeth, particularly along the gum line, leading to the formation of tartar.

How to Identify Tartar

Tartar primarily forms near the openings of the major salivary glands, particularly on the first and second upper molars, on the surfaces facing the cheeks, and on the lower jaw, on the surfaces of the incisors facing the tongue.

Types of Tartar

Supragingival Tartar (Above-Gum Tartar)

- Location: Forms above the gum line.
- Appearance: Typically light-colored, ranging from white to yellow or yellow-gray.
- Consistency: Softer compared to subgingival tartar and not as firmly attached to the tooth surface.
- Formation: Occurs primarily around the openings of the major salivary glands due to the calcification (hardening) of microbial dental plaque that has not been removed. Mineralization happens through the precipitation of minerals like calcium and phosphate found in saliva.
- Rate of Formation: Depends on the quality of oral hygiene and the composition of the saliva.

Subgingival Tartar (Below-Gum Tartar)

- - Location: Also known as serum tartar, it forms below the gum line.
  - Appearance: Dark-colored, usually dark brown or greenish-black, and can even be black.
  - Consistency: Thinner but harder and more firmly attached to the tooth surface compared to supragingival tartar.
  - Formation: Can occur on any tooth but is most commonly found below the gum line, in periodontal pockets (spaces between the tooth root and gum that form due to periodontal disease). Mineralization is driven by gingival fluid, an inflammatory exudate found in the gingival sulcus.

Tartar or Cavity? How to Tell the Difference

If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with tartar or an early-stage cavity, it’s always best to consult a dentist. However, there are a few signs that can help you differentiate between the two:

Tartar:
- Texture: Tartar has a rough surface and can be felt as a bumpy deposit on the teeth when you run your tongue over them.
- Color: It is typically yellow or brown in color.
- Location: Tartar commonly forms around the gum line and can also accumulate on dental prosthetics or braces.
Cavity:
- Appearance: Cavities often start as a white spot on the tooth surface, which can gradually turn brown or black as the decay progresses.
- Location: Cavities frequently appear on the chewing surfaces of teeth as well as around the gum line. They can also develop between teeth.
- Texture: A cavity may feel soft or sticky compared to the surrounding healthy tooth surface.

Both tartar and cavities can be found near the gum line, but cavities may also affect the chewing surfaces of teeth. If you notice any of these signs, visiting a dentist for a thorough examination and diagnosis is crucial for proper treatment.

Preventing Tartar Build-Up

Tartar itself doesn’t cause pain, which can make it easy to overlook. Since there are no immediate symptoms, people often neglect their oral hygiene, leading to a gradual buildup of tartar. Preventing tartar formation is crucial for maintaining oral health. Here are some tips to help you:

Regular Brushing: Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day, morning and evening. Don’t forget to clean the hard-to-reach back molars. The best toothpaste for preventing tartar contains special ingredients that inhibit its formation, such as zinc lactate.
Interdental Brushes: Clean between your teeth with an interdental brush to remove plaque from spaces where tartar often forms. Use the correct size of brush for each gap.
Dental Floss: Flossing removes plaque from between teeth that toothbrushes and interdental brushes can’t reach. Aim to use dental floss at least once a day.
Mouthwash: Antibacterial mouthwash helps reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth, preventing plaque formation and bad breath.
Oral Irrigator: An oral irrigator is useful for cleaning difficult-to-reach areas and is especially helpful if you have fixed braces. The water pressure also massages the gum line, improving blood circulation.
Regular Toothbrush Replacement: Replace your toothbrush every 3 months, or sooner if you notice signs of wear such as frayed bristles or if you’ve been ill (e.g., flu, strep throat, cold).
Regular Dental Check-Ups: Professional dental cleanings are essential for removing tartar that home care methods cannot address. Dentists use tools like scalers, curettes, and ultrasonic cleaners to remove tartar effectively.
Visit a Dental Hygienist: A dental hygienist will not only clean your teeth but also provide fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel and offer advice on the proper brushing technique.
Healthy Diet: Limit the consumption of sugary foods and beverages, as they promote bacterial growth in the mouth.

How To Remove Tartar?

There are several ways to deal with tartar, but natural home remedies come with their own risks. While some methods claim to remove tartar and even whiten teeth, they may be too harsh and potentially damage your dental health. Here’s a closer look at some common home remedies and their risks:

1. Lemon and Vinegar

Description: Some suggest using lemon or vinegar to remove tartar at home. A mixture of lemon juice and baking soda is touted for its whitening effects.
Risks: Both lemon and vinegar contain acids that can erode tooth enamel, leading to increased tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. Acidic substances also cause demineralization, making teeth porous and prone to decay. This can ultimately result in cavities.

2. Baking Soda

Description: Brushing with a paste made of baking soda and water is known for its abrasive effects.
Risks: The abrasive nature of baking soda can wear down enamel and irritate the gums. When combined with acidic substances like lemon, it can further damage the tooth surface.

3. Oil Pulling

Description: Oil pulling is a safer natural method where you swish oil (typically coconut oil) in your mouth for 15 minutes and then spit it out. A 2015 study suggests that coconut oil can reduce plaque formation and eliminate bacteria from the mouth.
Note: While oil pulling can be a beneficial addition to your oral hygiene routine, it should not be the sole method of dental care. It is best used as a supplementary practice rather than a replacement for regular brushing and flossing.

Professional Care: For effective removal of tartar, it’s crucial to rely on professional dental cleanings. Dentists use specialized tools to safely and thoroughly remove tartar that home remedies cannot address.

How to Remove Tartar Using Special Tools

Scrapers, Hooks, and Curettes for Tartar

Scrapers, hooks, and curettes are professional tools designed for manually removing tartar. These tools should only be used by dentists or dental hygienists. Tartar adheres firmly to enamel, and attempting to remove it yourself with these instruments is not advisable.

Professional Dental Hygiene

Dental hygienists use various tools, such as specialized hooks for removing tartar between teeth or curettes. While you might find these tools online, they should remain in the hands of professionals. It’s important to note that it might not be possible to remove all tartar in a single visit, and additional cleanings may be necessary.

Ultrasonic Tartar Removal

If the cost of professional tartar removal seems too high but you want to avoid damaging your enamel with questionable home remedies, consider using an ultrasonic cleaner. Ultrasonic tartar removal is a gentle and effective method for at-home use. These devices use modern technology to remove hard tartar and plaque from between teeth and other hard-to-reach areas.